Which race has the highest incidence of spina bifida?

• A. Non-Hispanic White
• B. Asian
• C. Hispanic
• D. Non-Hispanic Black

Answer: (C)

Spina bifida risk varies by race/ethnicity and is closely linked to folic acid intake around conception. Taking folic acid before and very early in pregnancy significantly lowers the chance of neural tube defects, so differences in prenatal nutrition and access to care can influence incidence.

Among the groups listed, the highest incidence is seen in Hispanic individuals. Surveillance data show higher neural tube defect rates in Hispanics compared with non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, and Asian groups. The other groups tend to have lower rates in comparison. This pattern highlights the impact of periconception folic acid intake and prenatal care on reducing risk, especially in populations with higher baseline risk.